A twice-daily facial cleansing and gentle skin-care routine can help control rosacea, according to a new survey conducted by the National Rosacea Society.

In the survey of 1,633 rosacea patients, 78 percent said their facial cleansing routine had helped control their rosacea. Of those surveyed, over 69 percent reported washing their face twice a day and 24 percent said they did it once a day. Most often, 83 percent of the time, facial cleansing was performed at the sink, compared with 39 percent in the shower.

Thirty-seven percent of the respondents said they use a mild bar soap, followed by 24 percent who reported using a nonsoap cleanser. A moisturizing cleanser was used by 14 percent, while regular bar soap, mild liquid soap and medicated wash were each reportedly used by 7 percent of those surveyed.

The fingertips were used to wash the face by 70 percent of the rosacea patients, while 48 percent reported using a washcloth and 7 percent used cotton squares. In addition, half of the respondents said they use warm water and 47 percent used lukewarm water. Only a few (11 percent) ever turned on cold water for cleansing and even fewer (3 percent) used hot water.

To dry their face, 71 percent said they blot with a towel, while 22 percent wipe with a towel and 13 percent allow their face to air dry.